Risk Factors for Fibroids: What You Need to Know

Uterine fibroids are one of the most common gynecological conditions, affecting up to 80% of women by the time they reach 50. However, not all women experience symptoms, and some are more likely than others to develop large or multiple fibroids.

Understanding the risk factors for fibroids can help you take control of your health, recognize symptoms early, and explore treatment options before fibroids impact your quality of life.

Below, we break down the key factors that may contribute to fibroid growth and what you can do about them. Contact our team directly or continue reading to learn more.

What Are the Risk Factors for Fibroids?

For now, the science of why women get fibroids is still emerging. However, recent studies have identified key factors that can increase your risk for developing these growths, including:

• Race and Ethnicity: Black, Hispanic, and Asian women are at a higher risk for developing fibroids. Research from the BJOG Journal found that Black women have a 2–3 times greater risk than white women. This racial disparity may also explain why fibroid rates in European countries are lower than in the U.S.
• Family History: If your mother, sister, or grandmother had fibroids, you are more likely to develop them as well.
• Hormones and Birth Control Use: Estrogen and progesterone influence fibroid growth. Some forms of birth control—especially oral contraceptives and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate—may increase fibroid risk, while others may help control fibroid symptoms.
• Obesity and BMI: Women with higher body mass indexes (BMIs) are at an increased risk for fibroids.
• Age: While fibroids are common in reproductive years, the risk decreases after menopause.
• Pregnancy History: Full-term pregnancies and breastfeeding appear to reduce fibroid risk by regulating hormone levels.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, high blood pressure, stress, and diets high in processed foods may also contribute to fibroid growth.

Environmental Contributors to Fibroid Growth

A study published in Fertility and Sterility found that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in utero may increase the risk of developing fibroids later in life. These chemicals, such as BPA and phthalates, interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, potentially leading to fibroid growth.

Research has linked phthalate exposure—found in plastics and household products—to increased fibroid risk. One study found that Black women with higher phthalate levels in their urine had larger fibroids and enlarged uteruses. Since EDCs are present in everyday household items, avoiding plastic food containers, certain cosmetics, and non-stick cookware may help reduce exposure.

Genetic Factors and Fibroid Development

Scientists from the University of Helsinki have uncovered a genetic link to fibroid risk. By studying over 2,000 tumors, researchers found that fibroids tend to fall into specific genetic categories.

A study published in Human Genetics has also identified 30 chromosomal locations linked to fibroid development. With this discovery, doctors may eventually use genetic testing to assess fibroid risk, particularly in women with a strong family history. Women with higher genetic risk scores (PRS) may be more susceptible to fibroids and should be vigilant about early symptom detection.

What’s Involved in Confirming a Fibroid Diagnosis?

If you are experiencing fibroid symptoms such as heavy periods, pelvic pain, incontinence, or constipation, your doctor may check for fibroids. However, many women struggle to receive a proper diagnosis, often being dismissed by medical providers. If this happens, self-advocacy is crucial.

A fibroid diagnosis typically involves:

• Pelvic Exam: To check for abnormalities in the uterus.
• Ultrasound (Pelvic or Transvaginal): To confirm the presence and location of fibroids.
• MRI or Hysterosonography: If further imaging is needed to assess fibroid impact.

Once diagnosed, your treatment options depend on symptom severity and reproductive goals. While some doctors may recommend surgery, there are also non-surgical treatments like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) that can effectively shrink fibroids without removing the uterus.

Effective Minimally-Invasive Fibroid Care in Texas

If your fibroids are small and not causing discomfort, monitoring their growth with routine check-ups may be the best course of action.

Lifestyle modifications—diet, exercise, and stress management—can help manage symptoms. However, if fibroids impact fertility, cause excessive bleeding, or interfere with daily life, seeking treatment is essential.

Surgical options such as myomectomy and hysterectomy exist, but UFE offers a minimally invasive alternative that preserves the uterus while effectively reducing fibroid symptoms. To explore your best treatment options, schedule an appointment with our Dallas-area fibroid specialists today or call us directly at 469-341-5997.